There are two types of processors in a computer that perform different tasks: CPU (central processing unit) and GPU (graphics processing unit). These processors serve different purposes, working together to handle the varied demands of modern devices
CENTRAL PROCESSOR: Central Processing Unit
The CPU is the main processor, such as Intel’s Core i7 or AMD’s Athlon. Its primary job is to perform various calculations and support program operations not directly related to graphics rendering. The processors are excellent at handling sequential tasks that require high-speed computation, such as data conversion or running powerful software with multiple compute units.
GPU: Graphics Processing Unit
The graphics processor used in Nvidia, AMD Radeon™, or MSI graphics cards is specialized for graphics-related tasks. It consists of tens, hundreds or even thousands of small processors that perform parallel tasks. Its main task is to process data and convert it into pixels displayed on the screen. Each GPU core works independently of each other: some process pixels in one area of the screen, others – in different areas, resulting in a complete image. Therefore, because of the large number of parallel processes, it is video cards that are used for cryptocurrency mining.
In some cases, processors are equipped with integrated graphics processors, such as Intel® HD Graphics. They combine the CPU core and the GPU core in one chip, in TVs and phones the chips are also always integrated.
How they work together
The interaction between the CPU and GPU is evident in applications such as games. The CPU computes the dynamics of the game, such as determining the position of objects on the screen, while the GPU processes and displays these objects as images at the right points. This division of labor explains why a less powerful CPU, such as an Intel i3, paired with a good GPU can perform better in games than a powerful CPU, such as an Intel i7, with a weak GPU.
Conversely, in tasks that require significant processing power, such as processing large data sets or running applications with static output, the CPU’s capabilities become decisive and the GPU’s role becomes less significant.
There is no competition between CPUs and GPUs: they are designed for different tasks and complement each other. The CPU performs general-purpose computing and the GPU specializes in high-speed parallel processing, so both are essential for balanced and efficient systems
